Predators sign D Roman Josi to 7-year, $28 million deal, helping lock up top defensive line

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Nashville Predators have signed defenseman Roman Josi to a seven-year, $28 million deal, tying up the other piece of their top defensive line.

General manager David Poile said in a statement Monday that signing Josi was a top priority. Poile says Josi has proven with his growth in Nashville and internationally that he is one of the NHL's best young defensemen.

Captain Shea Weber had a 14-year, $110 million offer sheet matched by Nashville last July.

The 23-year-old Josi scored 18 points in 48 games for the Predators this season, topping what he did as a rookie in 2011-12. He ranked 19th in the NHL in total minutes played, and he led Switzerland to a silver medal at the world championships.